Interview with Dr Amy Pearlman Pt.2

More in depth discussion with Dr Amy on the rise of ED

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Interview with Dr Amy Pearlman Pt.2

  • Common health concerns among men.

  • The shift towards regenerative therapies.

  • Overlooked men's health issues.

  • Dr. Pearlman's unique perspective as a female urologist in men's health.

  • The importance of testosterone in men's health.

Men’s Hormone Health & Related Issues

Testosterone levels play a crucial role in men’s health. Could you shed some light on the most common causes of low testosterone and the potential consequences if left untreated?

The most common causes of low testosterone are sleep apnea, diabetes, obesity, inflammatory conditions, pituitary disorders, metabolic disorders, chemotherapy, alcohol abuse, chronic kidney disease, aging, prior anabolic steroids, hypothyroidism, head trauma, and brain radiation. In general acute/chronic illness may impact testosterone levels.

Common physical symptoms and signs of low testosterone include: reduced energy, reduced endurance, diminished work performance, diminished physical performance, loss of body hair, reduced beard growth, fatigue, reduced lean muscle mass, obesity, depressive symptoms, cognitive symptoms, reduced motivation, poor concentration, poor memory, irritability, reduced sex drive, reduced erectile function.

We also know that low testosterone is a risk factor for heart disease.  

Low libido is a concern for many men. Can you discuss some of the leading causes and potential treatments for this condition?

 Common causes of low libido include hormone issues (like low testosterone), erectile dysfunction, reduced pleasure experienced during sexual activity, stress, fatigue, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, and medications.

The rise of erectile dysfunction (ED) in Western countries is a topic of much discussion. In your opinion, what are the primary factors contributing to this trend?

Heart disease and diabetes are the number 1 and 2 causes of erectile dysfunction. Because both of these conditions are becoming increasingly common, it’s no surprise that erectile dysfunction is a common condition.

In terms of an increasing number of people talking about ED, well I think this has to do with an increasing number of sexual and hormonal health-related businesses that have become increasingly popular. These businesses provide improved access to these services and therapies, as well as virtual platforms for care. A once (and still to a lesser degree) very taboo industry is also rebranding itself as the sexual wellness industry and sextech, which are often more palatable terms to a wider range of consumers than in the past.

Digital platforms, like Instagram and Youtube, are also allowing for more easily accessible information when it comes to these topics. There are so many great benefits of these more accessible options, however, there is a significant amount of misinformation available, also easily accessible, which can be overwhelming and confusing to the consumer (and in certain circumstances, unsafe).

When it comes to ED, there's a plethora of information and potential treatments available, ranging from medications to lifestyle changes. Could you provide some guidance on the most effective and safe approaches for men dealing with this condition?

 We have so many tools in our men’s health toolbox when it comes to optimizing erectile function. I have some great options listed below, which may be used to prevent, optimize, and/or treat ED.

· Anti-inflammatory foods/drinks

· Limited alcohol

· Discontinuing tobacco and any nicotine-containing products

· Exercise

· Treating sleep apnea

· Reducing stress

· Optimizing hormones (testosterone)

· Focused shockwave therapy (for men with mild to moderate ED)

· Penile constriction bands (FirmTech tech ring also has a sensor to provide men, in real time, information about number, firmness, and length (in time) of erections)

· Vacuum erection device (particularly great for penile rehabilitation)

· Intraurethral medication

· Penile injections (most effective medical way of treating erectile dysfunction)

· Penile implant surgery